Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

This Lemon Butter Chicken is a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish featuring golden, pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce. Infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of zest, this easy one-pan recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. Serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and flavorful – Rich butter sauce with a bright lemony tang.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients.
• One-pan recipe – Fewer dishes and minimal cleanup.
• Juicy and tender chicken – Pan-seared for golden, crispy edges with a moist interior.
• Versatile – Pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for creamier sauce)
• Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:

• Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Sear the chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
• Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the lemon butter sauce:

• In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
• Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese if using, and let the sauce thicken for another 2 minutes.

4. Return chicken to the pan:

• Add the chicken back into the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
• Simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.

5. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh rosemary or basil for extra herbal notes.
• Spicy Lemon Butter Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Garlic Parmesan Version: Double the garlic and stir in extra Parmesan cheese for a creamier, cheesier dish.
• Lemon Butter Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Low-carb version: Skip the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Use half the amount since bottled juice is more concentrated.

What’s the best pan for making lemon butter chicken?

A large cast-iron skillet or stainless-steel pan works best for even searing and retaining heat.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then pour the lemon butter sauce over the baked chicken before serving.

What sides go well with lemon butter chicken?

Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair perfectly with this dish.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Why is my sauce too thin?

Simmer the sauce for longer or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.

Can I meal prep lemon butter chicken?

Yes, it reheats well and can be stored in meal prep containers for up to 3 days.

How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F (75°C).

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just double-check store-bought broth and cheese for hidden gluten.

Conclusion

This Lemon Butter Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that works for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its creamy, zesty sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bright, refreshing flavors!

Print